Historical Renovation1887 Building (El Modelo Block Building)

Not an uncommon pattern in downtown then and now, what might have been Jacksonville's least famous building, yet probably its oldest, was about to be destroyed when it was entered into the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. In 1982 the El Modelo Block Building was renovated into commercial offices by Tom Perdue and Design Affiliation Architecture. Preservation of the building's integrity and history was the objective of the 1982 renovation.

The project required removing the entire interior structure, as the original wooden structure would not support the required floor loads of the office tenants. The interior was replaced with a steel frame tied to the original outer walls of the building, meeting all Florida codes including hurricane wind loads. The exterior renovation utilized tuckpointing to create an attractive, cost effective, enduring building facade.

The three-story 1887 Building renovation was one of DAA's most noteworthy projects, and was recognized by The City of Jacksonville Building Department as one of the most innovative engineering accomplishments in Jacksonville. The building is located at 513 W. Bay Street.

In 1980 the El Modelo Block Building was entered into the National Register of Historic Places. Later renamed the 1887 Building, the building was constructed of wood and brick and is thought to be the oldest commercial structure still standing in Jacksonville.

"In essence, a new building was constructed inside the walls and roof of the old one. It was a very difficult project and involved the total reconstruction of floor space in an amount ranging from 20,000 to 25,000 square feet. Mr. Perdue did what I believe is a very good job, especially when considering the budget constraints placed on him. [Mr. Perdue] probably has more experience in renovation of old structures than any other architect presently practicing here in town."